The Green Bay Packers have decided to release cornerback Nate Hobbs by declining his $6.25 million roster bonus, effectively terminating his contract. This move came following a difficult 2025 season marked by injuries and inconsistent play.
Financial Impact of the Hobbs Cut
According to reporter Rob Demovsky, the Packers designated Hobbs’ release with a June 1 designation, which results in $4 million of dead cap space for 2026. However, this decision allows Green Bay to save $8.8 million against the salary cap this year, easing financial pressure moving forward.
Background on Nate Hobbs’ Career Before Packers
Nate Hobbs, 26, was originally drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He signed his rookie deal worth just under $3.8 million, including a modest signing bonus. After finishing his contract in Las Vegas, Hobbs became an unrestricted free agent for the first time.
Signing and Struggles with the Packers
In free agency, Hobbs secured a lucrative four-year, $48 million contract with the Packers, aimed at bolstering Green Bay’s secondary. However, during the 2025 season, he appeared in only 11 games, contributing 27 total tackles, two tackles for loss, and two pass deflections, falling short of expectations.
Significance of the Move Going Forward
The Packers’ decision to cut Hobbs highlights the challenges the team faces in managing salary cap space while attempting to improve their roster. This termination not only frees cap room but also signals that Green Bay is re-evaluating its defensive backfield strategy as they approach future team-building decisions.
#Packers are not paying Nate Hobbs the $6.25M roster bonus, facilitating his release, per source.
Benjamin St-Juste in. Hobbs out.
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) March 10, 2026
The Packers are releasing CB Nate Hobbs and a source said they're doing it with a post-June 1 designation.
— Rob Demovsky (@RobDemovsky) March 10, 2026
